Prescriptions

GPs do not dispense medicines directly. However, they do provide written prescriptions or scripts (orders for medicine). These are dispensed by registered pharmacists. Usually your GP will direct you to a particular pharmacist, but you are also free to choose your own. There are plenty of outlets to choose from, since most of the bigger shopping centres include several retail pharmacies. Although you are free to present your prescription at any pharmacy, repeat prescriptions can be obtained only from the pharmacy that issued your first prescription. Otherwise, you will need to obtain a new prescription from your GP.

Standard costs

Most medicines are subsidised, which means the Government pays part of the cost. Adult New Zealanders pay between $3-$15 per prescription item for up to 20 items a year. If you or your family use more than 20 prescriptions, in most circumstances, further items are free. Prescription medicine for children under six is free. Community Services Card and High Use Health Card holders pay only $3 per item for most subsidised medicines. However, if there is a manufacturer's premium, this is charged in all cases, even when the prescription is 'free' or heavily subsidised. Non-subsidised items are charged at full cost although, alternative subsidised medicines are usually available.

 

Non-prescription medicines

Pharmacists are trained to give advice on medicines and on some health problems. They can also sell medicines that do not need a prescription. Pharmacists do not usually charge for their advice.

 

After hours service

If you need urgent medicine outside normal shopping hours, go to an Urgent Pharmacy. These are open until 10:00pm or 11:00pm. You will find them listed under 'Urgent Pharmacies' in The Telephone Book.

 

Costs

Subsidised Prescriptions

Age Group	Cost
Adults	$15 maximum
Childred	$10 maximum